Your Support is Essential
SMU is breathing new life into the health sciences by creating a generation of highly skilled and compassionate professionals ready to tackle 21st-century healthcare challenges. The University's reputation for personalized instruction, hands-on clinical training, and a diverse student body mean it's well-positioned to advance patient care and address health inequities. With your support, we can make an even bigger difference.
I Want to Help. What Are My Options?
There are many ways to support SMU, below are some common options. We are always happy to work with you individually to find the right fit for you and your family.
Join Our Circle of Friends!
President’s Circle
Donors who make an annual gift of $1500 or more to Samuel Merritt University are invited to join the President’s Circle. Members of the President’s Circle receive special event invitations, exclusive SMU swag, and are recognized throughout the year for their philanthropic commitment to the university.
Nursing Dean’s Circle
Donors who make an annual gift of $500 or more to the College of Nursing are invited to join the Dean’s Circle. Members of the Dean’s Circle receive special event invitations, exclusive SMU swag, and are recognized throughout the year for their philanthropic commitment to the university.
Podiatry Dean’s Circle
Donors who make an annual gift of $500 or more to the California School of Podiatric Medicine are invited to join the Dean’s Circle. Members of the Dean’s Circle receive special event invitations, exclusive SMU swag, and are recognized throughout the year for their philanthropic commitment to the university.
Commemorative Gifts
Memorial and honorary gifts have been an important part of the history and tradition of SMU. From gifts such as the Hall Nursing Award, given in 1971 to honor the fine nursing care at Merritt Hospital, and named in memory of Mr. and Mrs. Chaffee E. Hall, to every small memorial gift made by one alumnus in the name of another, the University provides its alumni and friends with fitting ways to honor or memorialize family and friends.
Stocks and Securities
Donors may avoid capital gains tax on appreciated securities by donating to the University. Please contact us for more details.
Endowment
Most endowment gifts bear the name of the donor or family and are restricted for scholarships. However, a donor may also endow a Faculty Chair in one of the programs offered at SMU. Endowment gifts are an especially rewarding way of giving. The funds are invested and the interest provides ongoing income for the purpose designated by the donor.